Principal's Message
Dear Hazelwood Families,
Welcome to another exciting school year at Hazelwood Elementary!
For those I have not yet had the privilege of meeting, my name is Brenda Gasaway, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Hazelwood Elementary. This year marks my fourth year at Hazelwood, and I could not be more excited to welcome back our Mustangs and continue supporting their academic, social, and personal growth.
This year, we are introducing a renewed vision for teaching and learning at Hazelwood:
We inspire a love of learning and help every student grow as a creative and critical thinker.
We want every child to feel seen, valued, safe, and connected to a caring and inclusive community that honors diversity and perseverance. At Hazelwood, students are encouraged to try new things, take thoughtful risks, solve problems with confidence, and discover their individual strengths and passions.
To help bring this vision to life, we will encourage our students—and ourselves—to INSPIRE each day:
I – Inquire: Ask questions and remain curious.
N – Notice: Pay attention and make observations.
S – Set Goals: Identify what you want to accomplish and take steps toward achieving it.
P – Prepare: Develop the knowledge, tools, and habits needed to reach your goals.
I – Investigate: Explore ideas, gather information, and consider different possibilities.
R – Request Feedback: Seek guidance and use feedback to improve.
E – Explain: Share your thinking, communicate your ideas, and reflect on your learning.
INSPIRE gives students a common language for becoming active and thoughtful learners. It encourages them to ask questions, pay attention to the world around them, set meaningful goals, prepare for success, investigate new ideas, learn from feedback, and confidently explain their thinking.
Through this work, students will develop the creativity, critical-thinking skills, confidence, kindness, and perseverance they need to thrive in a changing and connected world. Our mission is to support students in setting and reaching academic and social goals while building strong character and problem-solving skills. Through strong partnerships with families and our community, we will help every child recognize their strengths, discover their passions, and explore the many possibilities for their future.
Clear and consistent communication remains one of my priorities. Our school website provides general information, important updates, and upcoming events throughout the year. The district will also continue using ParentSquare as our primary communication platform. ParentSquare supports effective two-way communication and helps us remain connected as a school community.
I will send family newsletters on the first and third Thursday of each month through ParentSquare. Newsletters will also be posted on our school website at hazelwood.rentonschools.us.
I am committed to being accessible to our students, staff, and families. The best way to reach me is by email at brenda.gasaway@rentonschools.us, and I strive to respond within 24–48 hours. To schedule an in-person meeting, please contact our main office at 425-204-4558.
Most importantly, I want every member of our community to feel comfortable approaching me—whether you would like to share an idea, ask a question, express a concern, or simply say hello. Hazelwood is a truly special place, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue leading and learning alongside our incredible students, staff, and families.
Together, we will INSPIRE curiosity, confidence, creativity, and growth in every Mustang!
Warmly,
Brenda Gasaway, Principal
Hazelwood Elementary School
425-204-4550 | brenda.gasaway@rentonschools.us
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